MAGA is loooosing their mind over the BAD BUNNY Supe Bowl Halftime Show. As a result of ThE NFL decision to have the Puerto Rican superstar perform, she wants her “make English the official language” bill passed before the Super Bowl.
Speaking a language other than English is protected under the First Amendment, even if a law designates English as the “official language.”
1. The First Amendment protects language as part of free speech.
The First Amendment protects freedom of expression, which includes the language you choose to speak.
The Supreme Court and federal courts have long held that language choice is a form of protected expression part of how people communicate ideas, identity, and culture.
So, even if English is declared the “official” language, the government cannot prohibit or punish you for speaking another language — like Spanish, Mandarin, or Navajo — in private or public life.
2. “Official English” laws are mostly symbolic.
Many states (over 30) have passed laws declaring English their “official language.”
However:
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These laws generally mean official government documents and business are conducted in English.
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They cannot override constitutional rights.
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Courts have struck down or limited such laws if they infringe on free speech, equal protection, or due process.
Example:
In Arizona v. Arizona (1998), the Arizona Supreme Court struck down a strict “English-only” law because it violated free speech and equal protection — it would have barred public employees from speaking other languages, even when necessary to serve residents.
3. The government can’t compel or restrict your language choice in most settings.
You are free to:
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Speak any language you wish in conversation, business, education (private), worship, or social contexts.
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Offer services or conduct business in another language.
However, government agencies may require official records and proceedings (like court documents, ballots, or laws) in English. That’s administrative, not a restriction on personal speech.
4. Exceptions are very limited
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Certain safety-sensitive or official government jobs may require English proficiency if it’s necessary for performance or public safety.
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Private employers can require English on duty only if it’s a business necessity (per EEOC guidelines).
But they cannot ban employees from speaking their native language during breaks or off duty. That would be discrimination under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act.
Even if English is declared the official language by law, you still have a constitutional right to speak any language you choose.
The First Amendment, along with federal civil rights laws, protects that right.
After all, even HATE speech is protected…
Debate is welcomed if you disagree…